New Zealand’s Joyful Event Features Cham Dance, Procession Talk by Sangye Nyenpa Rinpoche and More

(October 24, Auckland, NZ) The 900th anniversary of the birth of the First Karmapa was marked by a joyful and inspirational Karmapa 900 celebration, held in Auckland.  His Eminence Sangye Nyenpa Rinpoche  presided over New Zealand’s Karmapa 900 celebration, which followed the first New Zealand Kagyu Monlam, organized by Venerable Choje Lama Shedrup, Venerable Master Chang Lin, Palpung Thubten Chokyi Ghatsal Tibetan Buddhist Institute (Zhyisil Chokyi Ghatsal Charitable Trust) and Pushien Temple. His Holiness Dalai Lama’s Australasian representative Mr. Dakpo Sonam Norbu and New Zealand representative Mr. Thubten Kesang also attended the celebration. The events took place in at the Oneness Charitable Trust Temple in Auckland.

The 900 Karmapa celebration began with a traditional procession, and a lion and dragon dance offered by an enthusiastic group of performers. His Eminence Sangye Nyenpa Rinpoche led the procession into the shrine room, where the portrait of the First Karmapa Dusum Khyenpa and the holy statue that spoke were placed on His Holiness’ throne. The lions then entered the temple, accompanied by a dragon, and prostrated before the shrine. Following this, everyone entered the temple and His Eminence led the ceremonial offering of Mandala, Body, Speech and Mind. His Eminence Sangye Nyenpa Rinpoche gave an introduction to the 900 Karmapa celebration emphasizing the importance of the Guru as the source of blessing and inspiration.

A profound video message for New Zealand, from His Holiness the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa Orgyen Trinley Dorje was screened.

A dance group led by Yu Fen, offered a specially choreographed Dakini dance, followed by the offering of tea, saffron rice and cake to all present. Choje Lama Shedrup and Master Chang Lin offered His Holiness’ throne and His Eminence beautiful commemorative medallions. Offerings of the Karmapa 900 book and commemorative medallions were also offered to the venerable ordained sangha, benefactors and volunteers who had helped with the Kagyu Monlam and Karmapa 900 events.

Finally, Dr. Heather Buttle offered a thank you speech on behalf of the Monlam Organization. Dr. Buttle thanked His Eminence on behalf of Venerable Choje Lama Shedrup, Venerable Master Chang Lin, Palpung Thubten Chokyi Ghatsal Tibetan Buddhist Institute and Pushien Temple for visiting New Zealand and representing His Holiness 17th Gyalwang Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje. His Eminence’s presence was “like water sprinkled on a lethargic face” as all were refreshed by the wisdom contained in His words and activities. The auspicious evening concluded with everyone holding lotus lamps and reciting the Marme Monlam prayer for universal peace and happiness.